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The Old Castle Chronicles
Crazy Daisy: An Old Castle Novel
It is always night in the cave. Take my cold hand.
Weeks before young Fern Keegan witnesses the ghostly apparitions of the woman and two children in the river tunnel during the devastating Old Castle floods, a disturbed patient named Gabriel Bogdan makes an outrageous claim that nobody at The Hillside Psychiatric Hospital takes seriously until it's too late.
The river runs through it, and the river runs deep.
My name is Daisy, but you may know me as Crazy Daisy.
Weeks before young Fern Keegan witnesses the ghostly apparitions of the woman and two children in the river tunnel during the devastating Old Castle floods, a disturbed patient named Gabriel Bogdan makes an outrageous claim that nobody at The Hillside Psychiatric Hospital takes seriously until it's too late.
The river runs through it, and the river runs deep.
My name is Daisy, but you may know me as Crazy Daisy.
407 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 23, 2022
53 people are currently reading
2090 people want to read
About the author
Jonathan Dunne
25 books1,302 followers
Jonathan's next novel will be psychological/supernatural horror Mummy: An Old Castle Novel coming 2026!
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Jonathan's supernatural horror The Reek: An Old Castle Novel is slated for release late 2026!
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Supernatural horror Halfway House: An Old Castle Novel coming early 2027!
https://tinyurl.com/338zumv8
OUT NOW! Dead Air Vol 2 of The Dead Series in Kindle, paperback, and hardback! Audiobook read by the author.
https://a.co/d/76KU54N
OUT NOW! The Boneyard: Short Fictions of the Morbid and Macabre Vol 2 of short horror collection The Boneyard Series.
https://a.co/d/gnGHpMP
OUT NOW! The Boneyard: Short Fictions of the Morbid and Macabre Vol 1 of short horror collection The Boneyard Series. Keep an eye out for Vol 2 in the coming weeks!
https://a.co/d/2i8iwB9
OUT NOW! Fireman in Kindle, paperback, and hardback! Audiobook read by the author.
https://a.co/d/9PJLr30
Jonathan has an exciting lineup of new horror titles in progress. To stay updated on his latest horror offerings, be sure to follow him on his Amazon author page and Goodreads. Jonathan writes dark fiction and hangs around the local cemetery more often than is healthy, whether in his homeland of Limerick, Ireland or his second home in Toledo, Spain. He will be in the mountains if he isn't at the cemetery. Jonathan holds a BA in Literature.
Jonathan's audiobooks YouTube page (work in progress):
https://www.youtube.com/@JonathanDunn...
Jonathan's Amazon Page:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jonatha...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
December 26, 2023
3,0 ✨✨✨
( Audiobook)
( Audiobook)
October 30, 2024
4.25 stars ...
The 3rd tale in the 'Old Castle' audiobook set I bought for 99 cents. 😝 It wasn't *quite* as enjoyable as "The Squatter" but considerably better than "Billy's Experiment". Certainly worth .198 cents (plus tax)! 👍😁👍 The guy definitely knows how to write a spooky ghost/possession story ... but I really wish he would spend the $$$ to get a decent narrator instead of doing it his ownself. 😣
The 3rd tale in the 'Old Castle' audiobook set I bought for 99 cents. 😝 It wasn't *quite* as enjoyable as "The Squatter" but considerably better than "Billy's Experiment". Certainly worth .198 cents (plus tax)! 👍😁👍 The guy definitely knows how to write a spooky ghost/possession story ... but I really wish he would spend the $$$ to get a decent narrator instead of doing it his ownself. 😣
September 7, 2023
If you're a fan of The Turn of the Screw this is a must read. An atmospheric and creepy, beautifully told ghost story that pulls you in and won't let you go. I had never read Mr Dunne before this book, but I plan on reading more of his books.
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
August 25, 2023
Watch out for the River Witch!
She'll drag you to your drowning death.....
Fern Keegan was 8 years old when she put on her new bright blue Wellington rubber boots when she slipped and ended up in the OldCastle river just as the town was going to experience a horrible flood.......she almost drowned, that was until she noticed the scary lady in a strange shift and her two children standing beside her in the rivers tunnel. She was rescued at the last minute.
The Hillside mental institution is up on the hill, and it houses one of the creepiest inmates; Gabriel Bogden and he knows something that he is not saying about the towns urban legend Crazy Daisy. Is she real?
This was the 2nd book in a row that I listened to narrated by the author himself. The first was 'The Squatter' and I raved it with 5 Screams All the Way! This was not as fast moving or interest grabbing as that one was. I did not like when we are taken away from Fern Keegan to where the story just changes and starts to tell of two more characters that I really did not care anything about. Still recommended though, as Dunne's writing is so unique in the ways he tells a story of ghosts, possession and creepy goings on in the river of Old Castle.
4 Ghosts
She'll drag you to your drowning death.....
Fern Keegan was 8 years old when she put on her new bright blue Wellington rubber boots when she slipped and ended up in the OldCastle river just as the town was going to experience a horrible flood.......she almost drowned, that was until she noticed the scary lady in a strange shift and her two children standing beside her in the rivers tunnel. She was rescued at the last minute.
The Hillside mental institution is up on the hill, and it houses one of the creepiest inmates; Gabriel Bogden and he knows something that he is not saying about the towns urban legend Crazy Daisy. Is she real?
This was the 2nd book in a row that I listened to narrated by the author himself. The first was 'The Squatter' and I raved it with 5 Screams All the Way! This was not as fast moving or interest grabbing as that one was. I did not like when we are taken away from Fern Keegan to where the story just changes and starts to tell of two more characters that I really did not care anything about. Still recommended though, as Dunne's writing is so unique in the ways he tells a story of ghosts, possession and creepy goings on in the river of Old Castle.
4 Ghosts
January 13, 2023
Crazy Daisy
If you are a fan of horror, you have to read this book. I would have given it more stars if I could have. From the first to the last page, I couldn't read fast enough. I hope this author has more, I will definitely be getting them.
If you are a fan of horror, you have to read this book. I would have given it more stars if I could have. From the first to the last page, I couldn't read fast enough. I hope this author has more, I will definitely be getting them.
December 17, 2023
I give this a 4.5 out of 5 stars. "Crazy Daisy" by Jonathan Dunne is atmospheric and creepy. I was unfamiliar with his work until I read "Rosie," which I loved. Now that I have read "Crazy Daisy," I want to read even more of his books.
Comparing the two books I have read is like comparing apples to oranges. They are so very different. The only similarity is that they are both chilling and creepy. "Crazy Daisy" is about a girl who nearly drowns and sees apparitions. The story is about how these people became apparitions, to begin with. The story has three parts. It is hard to say what goes on in the story without giving spoilers, but suffice it to say that the story is creative and dark.
The imagery was astounding. I could visualize what was going on at all times. You cannot go wrong with ghosties and asylums. Dunne is quickly becoming one of my favorite horror authors. I recommend reading this for anyone who loves a great ghost or horror story. I would have given this a 5-star rating if it wasn't so slow in the middle.
Comparing the two books I have read is like comparing apples to oranges. They are so very different. The only similarity is that they are both chilling and creepy. "Crazy Daisy" is about a girl who nearly drowns and sees apparitions. The story is about how these people became apparitions, to begin with. The story has three parts. It is hard to say what goes on in the story without giving spoilers, but suffice it to say that the story is creative and dark.
The imagery was astounding. I could visualize what was going on at all times. You cannot go wrong with ghosties and asylums. Dunne is quickly becoming one of my favorite horror authors. I recommend reading this for anyone who loves a great ghost or horror story. I would have given this a 5-star rating if it wasn't so slow in the middle.
January 9, 2023
Great
You better not read this book, If you are planning to be near a river with a cave near by... IF you are g ok home lock your doors
You better not read this book, If you are planning to be near a river with a cave near by... IF you are g ok home lock your doors
June 13, 2024
The Old Castle series of books have been great so far. I really enjoyed the 1st and 2nd, but so far this has been my favorite. The progression of this tale is wonderful and comes full circle in a fascinating way. Jonathan Dunne has become a favorite author.
September 26, 2024
Another horrifying tale set in Old Castle, a place I am glad does not exist. Original, macabre, and cathartic, this novel has solidified Dunne as one of my favorite horror authors. High praise for Crazy Daisy. Onward to Hotel Miramar!
October 8, 2023
Thank you to the amazing writer and the publisher or publishers for all your hard work!
I'll admit I'm getting more into this authors books. This one isn't a favorite. It truly was an interesting read learning about the Water Mare and what she was all about. The dangers of what she is and what she's capable of, not only that, but we learn about her past and what caused her to be the way that she is. Of course learning that I do have one issue... but I don't want to put spoilers, so I'll leave that out. Even so, this was truly a one of a kind book.
The pacing was a bit slow for me. The beginning was strong and decent. The middle was slow and builds and of course, the end leaves you racing and biting your nails, hoping for the survival of everyone you know. If not for the middle, I would have finished this book a lot sooner.
There are ofcourse some things to be weary of, like desecration of a grave, self-harm, and other triggers, but not too many. If not for how long it took me to read this, I would have given it a higher rating. Of course, I still plan to read more from this author.
I'll admit I'm getting more into this authors books. This one isn't a favorite. It truly was an interesting read learning about the Water Mare and what she was all about. The dangers of what she is and what she's capable of, not only that, but we learn about her past and what caused her to be the way that she is. Of course learning that I do have one issue... but I don't want to put spoilers, so I'll leave that out. Even so, this was truly a one of a kind book.
The pacing was a bit slow for me. The beginning was strong and decent. The middle was slow and builds and of course, the end leaves you racing and biting your nails, hoping for the survival of everyone you know. If not for the middle, I would have finished this book a lot sooner.
There are ofcourse some things to be weary of, like desecration of a grave, self-harm, and other triggers, but not too many. If not for how long it took me to read this, I would have given it a higher rating. Of course, I still plan to read more from this author.
July 25, 2023
Great Folklore!!
Fern is eight years old and her mother has just bought new blue Wellington rubber boots for her. Perfect timing too because this town is about to get the mother of all floods. When Fern slips near the river, unbeknownst to her mother, she falls in and would have died...she should have died but a rescue team found her later. The creepy thing is that her last memory before she went unconscious when floating and drowning down the river was seeing a strange woman in white with equally two strange children.
This story is the longest roller coaster ride to build up to the main plot I have ever read.
And the funny thing is that not only was it fun and enjoyable but it also was necessary to express the bigger picture of what is a great haunting and tragic story.
Enjoyed this very original folklorish tale!!
Enjoy everything this guy's writes!!
Highly recommend!!
Fern is eight years old and her mother has just bought new blue Wellington rubber boots for her. Perfect timing too because this town is about to get the mother of all floods. When Fern slips near the river, unbeknownst to her mother, she falls in and would have died...she should have died but a rescue team found her later. The creepy thing is that her last memory before she went unconscious when floating and drowning down the river was seeing a strange woman in white with equally two strange children.
This story is the longest roller coaster ride to build up to the main plot I have ever read.
And the funny thing is that not only was it fun and enjoyable but it also was necessary to express the bigger picture of what is a great haunting and tragic story.
Enjoyed this very original folklorish tale!!
Enjoy everything this guy's writes!!
Highly recommend!!
January 25, 2023
This was a really fun, hard to put down read! Purchased on a lark from a random Amazon suggestion and was not disappointed. The descriptions of the river mare were so vivid- don’t think I’ll be forgetting her anytime soon. Looking forward to reading more from Mr. Dunne!
September 28, 2024
Yipes! While I still believe that in the end, this author's books are about family, community, and love, this one has captured the terror genre with perfection. Reader? I recommend the sunny window location. Audiobook? Outside in the sun, but casually run-walk from any nearby 🦋 (blue butterflies) especially near the water!
November 7, 2023
I won this book in a giveaway. It grabbed my attention from the beginning to the end. Good book.
September 28, 2023
Awesome book!
I loved reading Crazy Daisy. I love all the creepy horror happenings in the book. its an Awesome book, it kept me reading until the end.
I loved reading Crazy Daisy. I love all the creepy horror happenings in the book. its an Awesome book, it kept me reading until the end.
June 26, 2024
La forma en que esta novela está escrita hace que una historia que se ha contado mil veces destaque y luzca por encima de muchas otras. Además, es muy fácil sentir simpatía por los personajes.
Read
November 27, 2025DNF at 53% so many words but nothing engaging or satisfying.
This is my third book by this author and the first two were very good. The Squatter was in fact a 5 star read for me so I was surprised and disappointed in this instalment.
The plot just seemed so very shallow and by halfway there were just so many words with nothing new or interesting that I just gave up.
This is my third book by this author and the first two were very good. The Squatter was in fact a 5 star read for me so I was surprised and disappointed in this instalment.
The plot just seemed so very shallow and by halfway there were just so many words with nothing new or interesting that I just gave up.
December 23, 2022
Read this in one sitting. Loved the characters. Creepy and tragic. Loved the haunting ending! Definitely up there with his previous horror suspense novels.
January 3, 2023
Best book ever. I couldn’t sleep at night because I was so anxious of what was going to happen next. Best. Book. Ever.
February 4, 2023
This book kept me captivated the whole time. If you are looking for a book that where you can connect with the characters and be spooked at the same time I highly recommend it!
November 9, 2024
This book was wild from start to finish! I really enjoyed how fast paced it was. Kept me engaged from beginning to end! On to my next Dunne book :)
January 17, 2023
While this wasn't my favorite of Jonathan Dunne, it certainly was well written and mostly kept my interest. Also, I like how the chapters are divided up into shorter chapters than in some of his other books. It made it much easier to read. Good book.
January 11, 2023
Another great read by Jonathan Dunne
This captivating tale is a must read. I think it would make an awesome horror movie. I know this is not the final draft but there were so many typos and confusing text. On two occasions Daisy open her bowels and pees. Most people know that pee does not come from bowels. All in all a great book, scary as he'll and that's what I love.
This captivating tale is a must read. I think it would make an awesome horror movie. I know this is not the final draft but there were so many typos and confusing text. On two occasions Daisy open her bowels and pees. Most people know that pee does not come from bowels. All in all a great book, scary as he'll and that's what I love.
December 31, 2022
Absolutely loved Mr. Dunnes latest thrilling read. Read this in 2 days, couldn't put it down! The characters,the plot and that ending!! Unbelievable, cant wait for his next masterpiece.
Read
July 29, 2023This is a dnf for me at 36%. It’s hard to say why really. I enjoyed the first part with Fern(tastic) and felt the writer had really gotten a good grasp on the whole child like voice. It worked so well and the story felt promising. Going into part 2 with Gabriel I was still enjoying the book but the style didn’t change and it started to grate on me. I don’t mean he wrote Gabriel like an 8 year old, more the level of detail which at time felt repeated. I just started to lose interest and as much as I wanted to know what was going to happen, I just didn’t have the patience to keep reading. A lot of other people have loved this book, so please check out their reviews. This is a case of ‘It’s me, not you’. A kindle unlimited read.
October 12, 2023
😅 After the author liked my rating (3 stars) I instantly felt defensive about it. So that I might relax, I'll explain that I would much prefer that Goodreads allow fractional stars, use a ten star system, or lay out hard definitions for the meanings of the stars. Some one-star ratings mean a book was just ok, while others may mean it was regrettable. I found this book enjoyable. I don't know if I will read it again, but it was well written and it kept me engaged. If anyone would care to know, this is the system I like:
0 = trash, 1 = regrettable, 2 = ok, preferable to not reading, 3 = a good and enjoyable read, 4 = a great read, I'd likely recommend it and read it again, 5 = transcendent, life changing.
0 = trash, 1 = regrettable, 2 = ok, preferable to not reading, 3 = a good and enjoyable read, 4 = a great read, I'd likely recommend it and read it again, 5 = transcendent, life changing.
March 22, 2023
DNF
I gave up about a third of the way through. While the story seemed promising the lack of editing was so annoying that I couldn’t stay immersed in what I was reading. Typos (grizzly/grisly whooping/hopping), constant redundant or contradictory sentences and sentences with random words inserted. The way characters talked to each other didn’t feel natural, I checked the author information at one point to see if maybe English wasn’t their primary language but I don’t think that’s the case.
I gave up about a third of the way through. While the story seemed promising the lack of editing was so annoying that I couldn’t stay immersed in what I was reading. Typos (grizzly/grisly whooping/hopping), constant redundant or contradictory sentences and sentences with random words inserted. The way characters talked to each other didn’t feel natural, I checked the author information at one point to see if maybe English wasn’t their primary language but I don’t think that’s the case.
April 15, 2024
This was a very long-winded story which seemed to reach its conclusion several times and then continued. The real ending tied back to something that happened in the very beginning that I had completely forgotten was a part of the story. I disliked this lack of cohesion and the very creepy creature in the water.
February 27, 2024
Maybe this is a culture thing, but i did not find this scary or thrilling. The build up to the ghost is 2/3 of the book. I did not follow the logic of the ghost killing children, in a town unrelated to the original death.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews